There's So Much To See On The Kancamagus Scenic Byway In New Hampshire You'll Wish It Was More Than Just 56 Miles
By Michelle|Published June 29, 2022
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
One of the best ways to enjoy New Hampshire is by hopping in the car and exploring the nooks and crannies of the back roads. There’s always someplace to visit and a drive is often the easiest way to do it. But sometimes a scenic drive can actually be a lot more. This one on the Kancamagus Highway spans nearly 60 miles of road, offering not only beautiful scenery but some fun attractions along the way. Here are a few of our favorites as you figure out how to drive the Kancamagus in New Hampshire.
There's a beautiful hike leading to this waterfall, which is less than a mile. Sabbaday is one of the most visited waterfalls in the state and once you see it you'll understand why!
2. The Albany Covered Bridge
Albany Covered Bridge, Passaconaway Rd, Albany, NH 03818, USA
New Hampshire is full of covered bridges that make the state feel like the perfect New England destination. This one, located conveniently off The Kanc, is one of our favorites. It was built in 1858 and spans the Swift River. Enjoy the view any time of year. You can learn more about it here.
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3. Hancock Overlook
Hancock Overlook, Kancamagus Hwy, Lincoln, NH 03251, USA
Another great way to see the best of the White Mountains is gazing out from the Hancock Overlook. Your view will include the Osceola Range and you can also find the trailhead to hike to Mt. Hancock here.
Absolutely stunning in the fall, the Lower Falls Scenic Area can be accessed from right off the road. In the summer it's a great place to cool off, as this is one of the most popular swimming holes in the state. You can learn more about it here.
5. Rocky Gorge
Rocky Gorge Scenic Area, Kancamagus Hwy, Albany, NH 03818, USA
This beautiful area is the result of fascinating geology. A one-mile high sheet of glacial ice covered this area of the White Mountains more than 10,000 years ago years ago and when it melted the rushing water carved out this gorge. It's gorge-ous (clever!) to see, but you won't be able to swim here.
6. Pemigewasset Overlook
Pemigewasset Overlook, Kancamagus Hwy, Albany, NH 03818, USA
Some of the best views in the state can be found along The Kanc and that includes some pretty epic overlooks. This one looks out over the Pemigewasset Wilderness, which was once heavily logged. Today it's a beautiful reminder of just how special this area is.
What are some of your favorite sights to see along the Kanc? Let us know in the comments! And if you have any favorite roads to explore the landscape of New Hampshire we’d love to hear about those too.
